Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has joined forces with 17 other attorneys general to file an amicus brief in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. The brief supports Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ+ Equality, and individual patients and their families in a lawsuit against the Trump Administration.
The legal action challenges Executive Orders 14168 and 14187 issued by President Trump on February 4, 2025. These orders label gender identity as a "false" concept and aim to withdraw federal funding from institutions providing gender-affirming care to individuals under 19 years old. The coalition argues that these actions unlawfully discriminate against transgender youth based on their identity.
"Healthcare decisions belong in the hands of patients, their families, and their doctors – not politicians intent on restricting individual freedoms for political gain," stated AG Campbell. She emphasized that research shows access to gender-affirming care is vital for trans youth's emotional and physical well-being.
The states involved have implemented laws protecting transgender residents' rights, including access to gender-affirming care without fear of civil or criminal penalties from out-of-state jurisdictions. Massachusetts specifically ensures non-discrimination laws apply to health insurance coverage for medically necessary treatments related to gender dysphoria.
Medical evidence suggests that denying gender-affirming care can severely impact patients' mental and physical health. A University of Washington study found that receiving such care significantly reduces depression and suicidal thoughts among individuals aged 13-20.
The amici states also highlight the confusion caused by the Executive Orders among healthcare providers and anxiety among transgender youth and their families. The Trevor Project reported a significant increase in crisis service usage following these developments.
Despite continued availability in Massachusetts, the orders have created fear nationwide among providers and patients. AG Campbell previously led a group of attorneys general reaffirming their commitment to protecting access to this essential care.
The coalition urges the court to grant PFLAG’s motion for a preliminary injunction against these Executive Orders. Alongside AG Campbell, Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, and attorneys general from several other states have joined this effort.